Blog - Page 9 of 20 - Olga's Flavor Factory

Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

These roasted brussels sprouts are perfectly tender and caramelized, with crunchy bacon, red onion and sweet balsamic vinegar, they're completely irresistible.

Roasted brussels sprouts with bacon is the ultimate flavor combination. I've tried making brussels sprouts many different ways - on the stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, covered, uncovered, low heat, high heat. My favorite way of preparing them is always roasting them.

This method yields the most perfect brussels sprouts every time, by using a super easy trick - roasting them in the oven, covered for half the time with foil and uncovered for the second half of the roasting. You will get brussels sprouts that are completely cooked through but still firm enough to hold their shape and not get mushy. At the same time, they are caramelized, so they're golden brown, slightly sweet and a bit charred. Oh, so good! I love how you can taste the multiple layers as you bite through each sprout.

The crisp, smokey and salty bacon and the caramelized red onion complement the hearty brussels sprouts so well. The balsamic vinegar evens out all these flavor combinations because it has just a touch of sweetness and the acidity really comes through and elevates this simple side dish into something extra special.

[Read more...]

Thanksgiving Host Checklist and Tips

Thanksgiving is a week away, can you believe it? This year just FLEW by for me. I can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving again. We are going to have family in our home for Thanksgiving and if you are hosting as well, I have some tips to share as well as a timeline/checklist. I'm basically sharing the checklist that I use and I hope it can be helpful to some of you. Even if you don't use this exact checklist, maybe it will prompt you to think about some things to make your job as a host go much more smoothly and give the best experience to your guests.

First of all, I would like to say that I am never aiming for perfection, an extra gourmet menu, and magazine worthy decor. My husband and I want everyone to have a great time together. My goal is to have a warm atmosphere, delicious food and as less stress as possible. Being organized helps so much to keep stress to a minimum and makes Thanksgiving Day run like a well-oiled machine, even when there's a hiccup here and there, it's not that big of a deal. [Read more...]

3 Tried and True Turkey Recipes Plus 10 Other Entree Options For Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving season, I am going to be your fairy godmother. I know what a daunting task it can be to host Thanksgiving in your home. Sergi and I love to have people in our home, so over the years, we have had many, many holidays and parties. I've done the practice, made plenty of mistakes, figured out some magic tricks and I'm going to share them with all of you.

Every day until Thanksgiving, I will give you lots of menu ideas, starting with the entree and ending with dessert. There will even be vegan and vegetarian options. I'll also share lots of tips and tricks to make your holiday gathering flow smoothly. I want you to feel more confident before and while you are hosting and really proud of yourself when your last guest goes home. [Read more...]

Cannoli Cream Puffs

These light and airy cream puffs hold the luscious and creamy cannoli filling and with a drizzle of melted chocolate on top, they become a really pretty and delicious sweet treat.

If you love cannoli cream, you will love these pastries. I have a special place in my heart for cannoli cream, because we had a cannoli cream filling for our wedding cake. It's so velvety, fluffy and rich, but I also try to keep the sugar balanced, so it doesn't become cloyingly sweet.

Cream puffs are beautiful and elegant and they are the perfect vessel for all your favorite fillings, so naturally, a cannoli filling is an awesome pairing. The light and airy cream puffs hold the luscious and creamy cannoli filling and with a drizzle of melted chocolate on top, it becomes a really pretty and delicious sweet treat. With the holidays coming up, you can probably use some inspiration for all the parties that you will be hosting or attending. You can also make these in advance, and that is always a big plus to make your life easier. [Read more...]

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Savor the ultimate comfort food with this creamy chicken and gnocchi soup. Packed with pillowy gnocchi, juicy chicken, and a medley of aromatic veggies, it's a cozy, flavor-packed delight.

Creamy chicken soup with onions, carrots, celery, and herbs, this bowl has just the taste that you're always craving in a chicken soup. With tender potato gnocchi in each bite, it only makes it even better. It's comforting, like any chicken soup should be, and has just the right amount of creaminess, but isn't too rich either.

This soup strikes the ideal harmony between creaminess and lightness, never feeling overly heavy or indulgent. It's the kind of dish that instantly soothes the soul, transporting you to a state of pure relaxation with its familiar, homey taste.

And the best part? It's an absolute cinch to make, relying on simple pantry staples that you likely already have on hand. Whether you're in the mood for a comforting classic or just need an easy, crowd-pleasing meal, this creamy chicken soup with gnocchi hits the spot every single time. [Read more...]

Black Currant and Hoisin Roasted Chicken Thighs

These juicy roasted chicken thighs are so delicious and are elevated with a simple, 5 ingredient black currant and hoisin sauce - a great combination of sweet and salty.

Weeknight dinners can be a challenge sometimes because of something I call "kitchen burnout". After prepping, cooking and cleaning up day after day, we have to do it all over again the next day. I can assure you that everyone gets this, even people who love to cook. Sometimes you just need a break, which means it's time to go out to eat, but other times you just need to try something new to get out of the rut.

Chicken for dinner is a no-brainer because it's easy, inexpensive and usually a hit with the whole family. I love roasting chicken because there's very little prep involved, which means fewer dishes and I'm all about reducing those dishes.

My parents grow all sorts of berries on their property and Mom made some blackcurrant jam that she shared with all of us. I decided to create a sauce using the sweet and tart jam along with some hoisin sauce to make a really delicious glaze for chicken. If you don't have any blackcurrant jam, you can use blackberry or plum jam instead. Serve with some rice and a salad and you just might be making this for company one night, because it's so delicious. [Read more...]

Zucchini, Corn and Black Bean Rice

Zucchini, Corn and Black Bean Rice is a great lunch or a fabulous side dish. The fresh corn and zucchini are sweet and juicy and the poblano pepper brings a tiny bit of heat. Black beans give this rice dish some earthiness and make it more filling, while the herbs and lime bring so much freshness and bright notes.

Rice and beans never looked this beautiful, don't you think? If you're looking for a recipe to make your side dish extra special, this is definitely it. There are so many different textures, flavors and vibrant colors going on.

The fresh corn and zucchini are sweet and juicy and the poblano pepper brings a tiny bit of heat. Black beans give this rice dish some earthiness and make it more filling, while the herbs and lime bring so much freshness and bright notes. It is definitely not a boring rice dish and is satisfying all on its own. You can also serve it with a grilled salmon fillet, roasted chicken or even shrimp kebabs; it's so versatile, it will complement many dishes very well.

Here's another great tip for you - most rice dishes are great as leftovers and freeze perfectly. Eat half of it for dinner and freeze the rest for a very easy dinner another night when you're extra busy. I also really enjoy this dish as my lunch the next day, all I do is reheat it in a skillet and it tastes just as fresh as the day it was made. How about making Burrito Bowls or Burritos with the leftovers? Just add some taco meat or grilled chicken and serve it with some shredded lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, shredded cheese and your family will beg you to make this more often. [Read more...]

Apple Cranberry Pie

This Apple Cranberry Pie is everything you want in a dessert—crispy, flaky, golden crust on the outside, and a sweet, juicy apple filling with a hint of tartness from the cranberries on the inside. The apples and cranberries pair really nicely together and the most amazing combination is serving the pie warm with a cold scoop of ice cream.

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm slice of apple pie on a chilly fall evening. The simplicity of this iconic American dessert is part of its charm. I’ve been perfecting this classic recipe for years, and I’m so excited to finally share it with you. With cranberries in season right now, I thought, “Why not add a little tart twist?” And I’m so glad I did.

The blend of sweet, juicy apples and tangy cranberries is absolutely irresistible. They complement each other perfectly, creating a flavor balance that’s both familiar and fresh. As for the crust—oh, it’s everything you want in a pie crust. Flaky, buttery, and just tender enough to melt in your mouth. I love adding a little sour cream to the dough—it gives the crust a subtle richness and makes it extra soft. Honestly, it’s so good, I sometimes wish I could roll it out and make cookies instead!

There’s something about pulling a golden-brown pie out of the oven that just makes me feel so cozy and “housewifely.” I hope you enjoy making this Apple Cranberry Pie for your loved ones and get to witness their smiles as they take their first bite. It’s one of those desserts that’s bound to make them say, “This is so good—thank you!”

[Read more...]

Zebra Cake

This popular Russian recipe for Zebra Cake is a chocolate and vanilla marbled tender coffeecake with a chocolate glaze.

I got married way before Pinterest (11 years happily married, yay!), so at that time I had to store recipes in an actual physical notebook instead of pinning it to a Recipe board. When Sergi and I got engaged, I bought a notebook and started my handwritten recipe collection. I started it by copying all of my favorite recipes from my Mom's handwritten recipe books, as well as copying down all the other recipes I had tried from other people, magazines, and cookbooks.

This Zebra Cake is a gem from that book, a recipe that Mom had gotten from someone else and became a favorite in our family. Of course, it gets the name from its signature zebra stripes. It sort of reminds me of a coffee cake. It's tender, chocolaty and perfect to enjoy with a hot beverage or a cold glass of milk. This was one of the first recipes that my sister and I made by ourselves as young teens, so it's easy enough for novice bakers. However, it looks stunning, so you've got the presentation as well as the simplicity here going for you. [Read more...]

My Secret Weapon To Cooking From Scratch - Weekly Meal Prep

Prepping our meals a week an advance has been life-changing for me. I've been doing this for years, but now that I have two little boys I notice a huge difference in the way our whole week flows when I take the time to meal prep. Before I had children, meal prepping was helpful for extra busy weeks, for days after working night shifts, when we had company or for special occasions. Now, it's my lifeline.

This is such a big deal for me, that I just had to share my practical tips with all of you. It's my most important secret to successfully cooking meals from scratch for my family without spending hours in the kitchen every single day. Let's be realistic, nobody's got time for that, am I right? We all have more important things to enjoy in life than preparing meals, cooking them, washing dishes and cleaning. With this method, I only need to spend a few hours one day a week in the kitchen. The rest of the week, the meals come together in no time, because most of the work is already done.

By doing this, you become your own future sous chef. [Read more...]

Tomato, Vegetable and Mushroom Ragu

The perfect recipe for Tomato, Vegetable and Mushroom Ragu - made with lots of vegetables and mushrooms to create a thick and hearty tomato sauce. This ragu is perfect to serve with pasta, add to lasagna and many other recipes. It's very convenient to make a huge batch and freeze it to use in the future.

Do you want to keep your food supply stocked with lots of great options for busy days? Meal prepping in advance has been a huge game changer for me for years and especially in the past 3 years as a busy wife and mother. This Tomato, Vegetable and Mushroom Ragu is extra delicious because of all the additional vegetables in there that just add to the depth of flavor. Plus, who doesn't want to incorporate more veggies into their diet? Even picky eaters will gobble this up and not realize they are also getting a good portion of onions, celery, carrots, zucchini and herbs in their tomato sauce.

I probably won't be telling you anything new when I mention that you can use it in countless ways - with pasta and a fresh grating of cheese for a simple, satisfying meal, add meatballs for a classic spaghetti dish, use it in Ziti, Lasagna, Chicken and Eggplant Parmesan, with tortellini and spinach, with pork and beef, as an addition to Borsch, Cabbage Rolls, Braised Cabbage and many other delicious meals. You can also add many other vegetables to this ragu to make it even more nutritious and flavorful, such as beets, bell peppers, eggplant, and parsnips.

Do you do any meal prep? What kinds of foods/ingredients do you like to stock your freezers with? [Read more...]

Roasted Cod With Tomatoes and Red Onion

An incredibly delicious seafood dinner, Roasted Cod With Tomatoes and Red Onions. The cod is so juicy and the tomatoes and onions become sweeter as they caramelize. Not only is this a quick dinner, but it looks so beautiful too.

Quick, healthy and bursting with fresh flavors, this has been a meal I make quite often, especially in the past year. The prep is so minimal but the flavors are incredible. The flaky, tender cod gets so much flavor from the marinade and it stays really juicy as long as you don't overcook it. The tomatoes and red onion become so sweet as they roast in the oven and it all pairs so perfectly together.

I often prep this dish in the morning during my baby's first nap and when 5 o'clock rolls around, dinner is mostly done, all I have to do is make a quick side to serve along, such as rice, couscous, quinoa or mashed potatoes. [Read more...]

The Juiciest Grilled Chicken Breast

Grilling Chicken Breast that is juicy and full of flavor can be achieved by brining it and also being careful not to overcook it. Use this as a basis and add sauce to the chicken or serve the chicken in burritos, pasta, rice, in salads and in a ton of other different ways.

This is one of my go-to meals for family dinners as well as when we are entertaining guests in our home. It's so easy to prepare and is very versatile. You can pair it with almost anything and keep it simple, like roasted potatoes or rice and a salad. You can also build on it with other things and serve it with burrito bowls, make fajitas, or add it to numerous pasta dishes.

Grilled chicken breast gets a bad rap because most people associate it with being dry and bland. However, with this recipe, you will be amazed at just how juicy and flavorful grilled chicken breast can be. The #1 thing that I hear from my guests whenever I serve this chicken is, "Wow, it's so juicy!". Brining the chicken makes it super juicy and flavorful all the way through, even to the center of the meat. You can also glaze it with different things to change the flavor to what you are craving for dinner that night, such as barbecue sauce, apricot or orange preserves, apple jelly, pepper jelly, etc.

[Read more...]

After a Long Absence, Hello Again

Hello, friends!

It's been more than a year since I've posted a recipe on this blog. I can't believe I took such a long break from posting anything here, especially since I posted several times a week for more than five years prior. I know many of you have been wondering where I've been or if I fell off the face of the earth, and I am back to reassure you that I am alive and well and the whole family is doing great! Thank you so much for all the caring emails and comments on the blog, Facebook, Instagram, etc. I really appreciate all of your genuine concern and well wishes. [Read more...]

Welcome To the World, Joshua Paul!

After the longest break from blogging that I've ever taken, I am back today writing a blog post, holding my newborn son in my arms as I type. I treasure every moment with my children and there is something so special about cuddling a newborn baby. They grow so quickly and I want to make sure to value this time and not take it for granted.

Joshua Paul was born on November 9th at 12:39 pm. Just like the birth of Nathaniel, the memory of hearing our second son's first cry and then having him placed in our arms will always be one of the most cherished memories that my husband and I got to share and will forever cherish. [Read more...]

Taking A Step Back

Hello! You might have noticed that I've been MIA from the blog and social media a bit lately and I think it's only fair to explain a bit of what's been going on behind the scenes here. Simply put, I've been in survival mode the past few months and especially the last few weeks, since I'm not feeling well due to my pregnancy. I had the same issues when I was pregnant with Nathaniel, so this is nothing new, just not fun to go through. [Read more...]

Blackberry Cheesecake Pie

This perfect summer pie with a flaky, tender and golden crust is filled with juicy blackberries and a smooth cheesecake filling.

I realize now that my childhood was almost like a fairy tale. I grew up picking lots of blackberries each summer on our parents' property. We actually traipsed happily through the woods, swinging our pails, laughing and talking with my siblings and mom. I can still hear the berries pinging as we put them in our pails and still see our happy, blue stained lips and teeth as we snacked while we worked.

There is something so incredibly soul satisfying about being so close to nature, breathing in the fresh forest air. We would come home with SO many berries, that we would eat and eat until we had our fill and then Mom would make so many different things with the berries - jam, syrup for pancakes, smoothies, Berry Kompot, bake them into muffins and coffeecakes and of course, freeze tons of the berries so we could enjoy them all winter long.

When I saw the tiny packages of blackberries at grocery store, I got such a nostalgic feeling, I knew I had to make some sort of dessert with these beauties. A pie seemed like the logical action plan, but I wanted to make it extra special by making it into a Blackberry Cheesecake Pie. The crust is so delicious, I would make cookies with just the pie crust. The addition of sour cream makes it extra rich and not as crumbly. The bottom layer of the pie is a cheesecake filling, which is so smooth and creamy. I also added some lemon zest to the pie, giving it extra flavor. My husband absolutely raved about this pie and was so excited to take a slice with him to work for a few days too. [Read more...]

Zucchini and Mushroom Orzo

Add zucchini and mushrooms to orzo and you have a creative and tasty side dish. The onions, garlic, fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese make it even more delicious. You can even add chicken or shrimp to it and have a complete meal that is so easy to prepare.

Who needs some ideas of creative alternatives to side dishes? Instead of serving just boring cooked pasta or rice on the side, how about sprucing it up just a bit, and adding tons of flavor and making something really special from a regular weeknight meal?

Zucchini is all over the shelves of the grocery stores these days. White button mushrooms are available any time of year, and onions, garlic, and herbs are pantry staples for most people in the first place, so this is really a no-brainer. In the amount of time that it takes for you to boil the water and cook the pasta, you will have the rest of the ingredients ready to join the pasta, so it hardly takes any extra time, just a little bit of effort to prep all the veggies.

Here's another idea how you can make life even easier - add some chicken or shrimp and you'll have yourself a complete one-dish dinner! How cool is that? I have the deepest respect for One-Dish Dinners, so I'm all for it. [Read more...]

Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp With a Creamy Avocado Dipping Sauce

Juicy Cilantro and Lime grilled shrimp kebabs have the perfect tropical, summer taste and the creamy avocado dipping sauce is so rich, fresh and delicious.

If you live in the United States, I hope you had a wonderful time celebrating Independence Day on the Fourth. Summer celebrations are almost synonymous with grilling, and this year, we were having a really relaxing day, (and hiding inside from the heat) so we decided to make Grilled Shrimp Kebabs.

Shrimp takes less than 10 minutes to grill, it tastes so fresh and light, snazzed up with a Cilantro Lime marinade. The Creamy Avocado Dipping Sauce deserves a standing ovation - it's so YUMMY. I really hope you give it a try. It would go so well with tons of other dishes - fish, chicken, tacos, salads, or as a dip for fresh sliced veggies. [Read more...]

Smoked Salmon and Avocado Egg Sandwich

An indulgent breakfast sandwich made with a toasted, flaky croissant, smoked salmon, eggs, chives, avocados and havarti cheese.

When you're going all out for a scrumptious, out of this world breakfast, this is exactly the one to make - a smoked salmon and avocado egg sandwich. Seriously, this is packed with flavor and an amazing combination of ingredients.

Flaky, buttery croissants make any breakfast extra luxurious, and the smoked salmon gives it saltiness, smokiness and heartiness. I love the melted cheese and even the chives add so much flavor to the eggs. Avocados are a good idea to add to almost anything, especially breakfast sandwiches. If I eat one of these, it will keep me full for both breakfast and lunch, but it's a great option for a delicious, really quick dinner option too.

What's one of your favorite breakfast sandwiches? [Read more...]

We've Been Keeping A Very Exciting Secret...

Good secrets are so fun and exciting and we've been keeping the best kind - we are going to have another baby! It's still hard for me to wrap my mind around it. After not being able to have children for more than 7 years, it's so incredible that after our miracle child Nathaniel was born, we are having another one less than 2 years later. It was such a happy surprise and we couldn't be more thankful and most definitely don't take it for granted. [Read more...]

Tropical Purple Cabbage Slaw

A tropical purple cabbage slaw is a unique twist on a classic salad. It's made with crunchy cabbage, mangoes, carrot, green onion and cilantro. The tangy and sweet dressing gives it a very refreshing taste.

This Tropical Purple Cabbage Slaw is so fresh, light and has lots of bright and refreshing flavors. We party in the summer like no other time. Since we live in Florida, it feels like summer almost all year, so we're extra lucky:). Summer parties call for lots of grilling, barbecues and picnics. What could be better to serve on the side than a slaw? I love a good, traditional coleslaw, but sometimes you need to change things up a bit.

First of all, can we just stop to admire how colorful and vivid this Tropical Slaw is? The gorgeous, bright purple cabbage is beautiful, but it's also really delicious and packed with nutrients. This slaw is so crisp, crunchy and very refreshing. The fresh cilantro and green onions give it lots of summery flavor, and the juicy mango pieces are a nice surprise. It's all dressed with a light vinaigrette, that is citrusy, a little bit tart and just a bit sweet.

It's perfect to serve with all kinds of things, like Fish Tacos, Barbecue Baby Back Ribs and Instant Pot Pulled Pork.

[Read more...]

Family Cabin Retreat 2016

We started out this summer relaxing at a cabin retreat in the mountains of Georgia. We had a lot to celebrate this June - our 10 year wedding anniversary, my 30th birthday and Sergi's 35th birthday. We decided to combine all these celebrations in one and spend an entire week having a very restful, enjoyable time surrounded by nature and getting away with our family to spend some quality time together. [Read more...]

Peach Hand Pies (Fried)

Enjoy a taste of the South with these Peach Hand Pies. Crispy, flaky crusts filled with fresh peach filling and topped with a sweet glaze.

Peach Hand Pies are a perfect summer treat that showcases the delicious, juicy sweetness of fresh peaches. These golden, crispy hand pies have a light glaze and are filled with a burst of fresh peach flavor in every bite. The flaky, slightly sweet dough contrasts beautifully with the fruity filling, making these hand pies an irresistible indulgence when peaches are in season. Whether you're serving them for a dessert or as a special treat, these hand pies are sure to delight everyone who takes a bite.

[Read more...]

Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Onions

Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Onions bring out the savory side of sweet potatoes with garlic and herbs. Simple to make and full of flavor.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Onions are a game-changer when it comes to healthy and flavorful side dishes. I’m all about making nutritious meals that not only fuel my body but also taste absolutely delicious. While sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, I love adding savory touches to them, especially when pairing them with a main course like roast chicken. With the addition of aromatic onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, this recipe brings out the natural earthiness of sweet potatoes in a way that’s downright satisfying.

What makes this recipe even better is the versatility. The onions bring a rich sweetness when roasted, while the garlic and fresh herbs infuse the potatoes with amazing flavors. If you’re looking to make it even more indulgent, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, cheesy note that perfectly complements the caramelized potatoes. A quick broil at the end of roasting ensures that the potatoes get a gorgeous, crispy finish. This dish is so flavorful on its own, you might just find yourself enjoying it as a main course rather than just a side. [Read more...]

Easy Chicken, Broccoli, Cauliflower and Carrots in a Velvety Sauce

This easy weeknight chicken dinner with broccoli, cauliflower and carrots is all cooked in one skillet. Serve it with pasta or rice and the creamy and aromatic sauce will soak in and bring all the ingredients together in a comforting meal.

As a Mom, you tend to have a few weeknight dinner recipes up your sleeve that are very quick to make and the whole family loves. This was one of my Mom's go-to dinners, or at least as one of her kids looking back, I would say this would be one that I remember eating a lot. As we grew older, my sister and I learned how to make this ourselves for the family too.

Chicken, broccoli, cauliflower and carrots are a perfect match. I think most kids like all these vegetables. All 5 of my siblings and I loved this dinner. It's really nice having the meat and vegetables cooking at the same time and there are less dishes to wash, since it's all prepared in one skillet. The aromatic creamy sauce goes along perfectly with the chicken and vegetables and soaks into the pasta or rice too. It's creamy, yummy and pretty healthy too.

By the way, you can use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones too. The texture won't be as great, but for a really easy weeknight meal, you can make a point to have all the ingredients on hand in your freezer, and you can whip it up in no time.
[Read more...]

Blueberry Vareniki

Blueberry vareniki are sweet, juicy, and filled with tender dough that’s totally worth the effort to make. Made with an easy pâte à choux dough that’s a dream to work with, these dumplings are sure to satisfy.

What better way to enjoy a delicious treat than with blueberry vareniki? These little dumplings are filled with juicy, sweet, and slightly tart blueberries that burst in your mouth with every bite. There is something so wonderful about the tender dough encased with sweet or savory fillings.

Vareniki are similar to ravioli but with a unique twist, offering both sweet and savory options. They’re fun to make in large batches and freeze, so you can enjoy them later for quick, satisfying meals.

The dough I’m using in this recipe is a bit unconventional, but it’s a dream to work with! This easy-to-handle pâte à choux dough rolls out effortlessly and shapes into perfect vareniki without any hassle. No more sweating over thin layers or tough dough—just tender, light, and fluffy dumplings with minimal effort.

The best way that I can think to describe Vareniki is that they are a Russian version of ravioli, in their own unique way. We grew up eating all sorts of Vareniki. You can use the same dough to create both savory and sweet fillings. They are great because you can make huge batches of them and freeze them to make conveniently quick and satisfying dinners or treats later on down the road. In fact, making Vareniki is the most fun if you can make a party out of it and invite a bunch of your friends or family to come help you make them.

The dough that I am using in this particular recipe is not authentic in any way. If you're interested in the authentic version, I can give that to you too, but let me tell you, I like this one a lot better. It's SO much easier to work with and when you cook the vareniki, the thin dough cooks up to be so tender and fluffy. This version is using a pate a choux dough, or the same type of dough that you use to make cream puffs or eclairs. After spending years struggling to make the authentic Russian Vareniki dough, which took a lot of sweat and muscles, I then had to move on to the even more frustrating part, rolling out the very thin layers of dough. By the time we would finish making hundreds of Vareniki, my arms felt like they would fall off. With this dough, I hardly break a sweat. I hope you like it as much as we do:).

[Read more...]

Creamy Zucchini Soup

This Creamy Zucchini Soup is so light, creamy, and tastes like spring. Made with roasted zucchini, it's blended up to make the most delightful first course.

Creamy Zucchini Soup is just the thing to make when zucchini is in season. With a few very simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand, you'll have this ready in less than 30 minutes. I love roasting zucchini for extra caramelized flavor. While the zucchini is in the oven, you can cook the rest of the soup and it'll be ready for the blender as soon as the zucchini is tender and golden.

Instead of making a roux (using butter, flour and milk), I prefer thickening cream soups using potatoes. That's my secret ingredient to the best texture for cream soups. Not only is it healthier, but I think it tastes better too and gives the soup a lovely velvety texture. Finished with a splash of cream, it's very satisfying. Just like my Creamy Potato, Celery and Leek Soup, it's one of the best first courses.

[Read more...]

Chicken Meatball Couscous Dinner

Chicken Meatball Couscous is a fresh and flavorful one-pan meal, combining juicy chicken meatballs, fresh veggies and mozzarella cheese. Easy to make, and perfect when you want something vibrant and flavorful.

Chicken Meatball Couscous is the perfect summer meal that combines fresh flavors with minimal effort. It’s a one-dish wonder, bringing together juicy chicken meatballs, tender couscous, and vibrant vegetables—all cooked in one pan! With fresh green beans, sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, this dish has everything you need for a satisfying and colorful meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or when you just want to relax and enjoy a delicious dinner without the fuss.

What makes this dinner extra special is how everything comes together so beautifully. The chicken meatballs are packed with flavor from Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, creating a savory base for the dish. The couscous cooks in just 5 minutes, so you can focus on other things while it perfectly absorbs all the flavors. The green beans add a nice crunch, and the tomatoes and mozzarella balls provide a burst of freshness and creaminess. Whether you choose to add the tomatoes after cooking or warm them through, the choice is yours for the perfect texture. This meal is not only company-worthy but also simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner that’s full of summer vibes.

[Read more...]

Zucchini and Feta Turkey Burgers

Turkey zucchini burgers are the secret to healthy burgers that are juicy and tasty. Adding feta cheese to the burgers adds another pop of flavor.

Turkey Zucchini Burgers with feta cheese, guacamole, tomatoes and cucumbers

Not only are these Turkey Zucchini Burgers good for your health, they are bursting with flavor. Burgers are a clean slate of creative possibilities. Not only can you be innovative with the type of burgers that you choose to grill, but you have a myriad of options for the toppings that will complement the burgers.

The #1 attribute of a good burger in my opinion is juiciness. If a burger is tough and dry, the flavors won't be enough to compensate. Since poultry is a lean meat (Yay! Healthy!) it also has has a tendency to dry out very quickly, since it doesn't have a bunch of fat to help keep it moist and tender. I added some grated zucchini to the burger meat, which not only adds flavor, but also adds juiciness, which I'm all about, as you can see.

Creamy and zesty bites of feta cheese dispersed throughout the meat gives you a nice surprise. As you enjoy bites of your burger, the pockets of cheese start to melt, but still keeps most of the texture, since the pieces of feta are generous in size to begin with.

The combination of the creamy, flavorful guacamole is such an awesome, summery complement to the turkey burgers and I love the crisp, crunchy cucumbers and tomatoes to top it all off.

[Read more...]

Rum Baba

Rum Baba is a delicious combination of yeast bread and cake, soaked in rum syrup and studded with raisins. A moist, flavorful dessert for any celebration

Rum Baba is a delightful classic dessert that blends the best of both worlds—yeast bread and cake—into a soft, delicate treat. The batter has a cake-like consistency and bakes into a beautifully moist, fluffy texture. Once baked, the dessert is soaked with a rich rum syrup, making it incredibly moist and full of flavor. Studded with raisins or your favorite dried fruit, this dessert is perfect for anyone who loves a sweet, aromatic treat.

You can make this dessert in a large Bundt pan for an impressive presentation or opt for smaller versions using mini Bundt pans or even popover pans. It's also delicious with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of citrus zest for added brightness. Whether you're baking it for a special occasion or just to enjoy with loved ones, Rum Baba is sure to be a hit.

[Read more...]

Steak, Mushroom and Potato Kabobs

These beautiful Steak and Potato Kabobs combine marinated steak, garlic-herb potatoes, and roasted mushrooms for a complete meal that's perfect for grilling.

Steak and Potato Kabobs are a delicious and fun way to enjoy steak and veggies all on the same skewer. These kabobs are packed with juicy steak, tender potatoes, and savory mushrooms—marinated and cooked together to perfection. What makes these kabobs so great is that everything cooks at the same time, so no need to worry about different cooking times for the meat and vegetables.

The steak is marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, red wine, and garlic, which keeps it tender and packed with flavor. The mushrooms get nice and roasted, juicy on the inside, and the potatoes are precooked with garlic and herbs, just waiting for a little charring on the grill. Serve these with a simple salad, and you’ve got an indulgent, steakhouse-quality meal in no time. Perfect for a summer BBQ or a fun dinner any time of the year.

[Read more...]

Sweet and Sour Chicken With Pineapple and Peppers

Make this popular takeout favorite at home, Sweet and Sour Chicken With Pineapple. The golden and crisp chicken is cooked with onion, peppers and fresh pineapple and then simmered in a homemade sweet and sour sauce.

Sweet and sour chicken may be a take out staple, but now that you have this recipe, it can be a quick homemade dinner option, and, in my humble opinion, taste a million times better too. One of my favorite things about cooking things at home is that you can adjust the ingredients to suit your own taste buds and also cook each of the ingredients exactly how you like them.

With our very busy lives, quick dinner options are a blessing. Another great thing about this particular recipe is that you can prep most of the ingredients in advance and when dinner time rolls around, it will be ready in no time.

The chicken is crisp and golden but so juicy and tender, you will be amazed that you're eating chicken breast. The bell peppers and onions give so much crisp texture and flavor to the dish, while the pineapple, of course, adds sweetness. The sweet and sour sauce is so velvety and perfectly coats the chicken and vegetables.

[Read more...]

Creamy Clam Chowder

A creamy, comforting clam chowder made with fresh clams, potatoes, bacon, and a hint of jalapeño. The perfect seafood soup for any occasion.

Living in Florida, one of the best perks is the abundance of fresh seafood. Every time I step into a local fish market, my mind races with countless ideas for new meals. The quality and variety of ingredients around me make creating new dishes both exciting and inspiring. One of my favorites is this creamy clam chowder, which perfectly captures the flavors of the ocean. It's the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and light, and it's always a crowd-pleaser!

This creamy clam chowder recipe is my go-to when I want something that feels both indulgent and refreshing. It's the perfect balance of rich creaminess with a variety of textures and flavors. The fresh clams bring that undeniable oceanic taste, while the tender potatoes and crispy bacon make it feel extra comforting. The onions and celery lend a familiar chowder flavor, the corn adds a bit of sweetness and crunch, and the jalapeño offers just a hint of heat. Finally, a touch of fresh herbs ties everything together, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

This creamy clam chowder is such a treat, and it’s perfect when served with some homemade bread or warm cloverleaf rolls to soak up all the deliciousness. The combination of rich cream, fresh clams, and hearty ingredients makes this chowder unbelievably delicious, and every bite is a comforting hug for your taste buds. It’s one of those recipes that feels special without being overly complicated, and it's guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to have a bowl!

[Read more...]

Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes

Have a blast making these Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes and decorating them with candy flowers. Soft, flavorful, and the perfect fun baking project!

Cupcakes are a fun, cute, and popular treat that are always a hit at any occasion. They’re easier to make than a full-sized cake, and their individual portions make for a great presentation—plus, you don't even need a plate! These Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes are a perfect combination of tender, moist cake and fluffy cream cheese frosting, making them a delicious dessert on their own or as a showstopper for any party.

Decorating cupcakes is a great way to get creative, and with these, you can have fun topping them with colorful candy decorations or even trying out a fun piping technique for the frosting. The sweet, tangy raspberry swirl inside the cupcakes adds a burst of flavor that complements the rich cream cheese frosting perfectly. Whether you're baking with kids or just having fun in the kitchen, these cupcakes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

[Read more...]

Lazy Lasagna

Lasagna is one of the most ultimate comfort dishes in America. However, whenever I think of lasagna, my mind immediately goes to all the work involved in making it. I know what it's like to be busy, since I've been both a working mom and a work from home mom, so I know that most of us don't have that much time in the week for extensive dinner prep. This version of Lasagna is the easiest one you will ever make, but is still just as satisfying. Lazy Lasagna is perfectly named, since it will take you no time at all to assemble. The best part about it is that it passed the ultimate test - the taste test. Both my husband and I actually liked it BETTER than the traditional lasagna.

It's also very customizable. If you want it meatier, cheesier or saucier, I've included all kinds of notes in the recipe instructions so you can make it exactly how you like it. This would also be an awesome dish to include extra vegetables, since you can add some zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or whatever else you might like to the sauce and it will taste awesome. Did I mention that you can freeze it? Yep. It's an all around winning dish from many perspectives. [Read more...]

Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Cakes Video Recipe

Who doesn't have leftover mashed potatoes at one point or another? Here's a great idea of how you can use those leftovers to make these cheese stuffed mashed potato cakes. I shared this recipe back in 2012 and it's one of my most popular recipes, so I decided to make a video of the process.

I love the addition of grated raw potatoes that is added to the mashed potato mixture. It sort of helps the mashed potato cakes hold their shape and gives them great texture, while the mashed potatoes are soft. The creamy, cheesy filling is flavored with fresh herbs and garlic powder and as you bite into the warm potato cake, you get a bite of that melted cheese and the crisp and golden outer mashed potato layer. [Read more...]

Garlic Braised Chicken in a Creamy White Wine Sauce

Serving chicken for dinner is a no-brainer. It's a classic because it's usually relatively simple to prepare, the flavors are so comforting and usually even picky eaters like chicken, and also because it's affordable. I personally really enjoy a good braised chicken. In this recipe, the sauce itself is packed with so much flavor, it will bring you to your knees. The chicken is so juicy and falls apart from tenderness as it braises in the sauce. The sauce is smooth and luscious, as you can see from the picture, but when you taste it, I hope you'll be as blown away as I was when I first took a bite. The garlic, onion, white wine, chicken broth and cream all marry together to create a spectacular union. [Read more...]

Painting Our China Cabinet

Today I am sharing a bit of a different type of post. Even though this isn't a recipe or a cooking tip, per se, I figure it does have something to do with the kitchen, since it's all about how we painted our dining room china cabinet. It holds our dishes, right?

Sergi and I found a really great china cabinet on Craigslist more than a year ago. We had intended to repaint it even when we bought it, but with my difficult pregnancy, recovery and plain and simple procrastination, this project kept getting put off. Another reason we didn't get to it sooner was that we weren't sure what color we wanted to paint it. [Read more...]

House Projects, Easter Celebration and Spring Happenings

I haven't written a post with a personal life update in a while, so I thought I would take this chance to chat. I do share little tidbits of family life on my weekly newsletter, but let's sit down, have a cup of tea and catch up right here.

There's nothing like the coming of spring that gives me a kick in the booty to do some major spring cleaning and tackle all those house projects that I've been putting off for months. Is anybody else like that? [Read more...]

« Previous Page